Zone 6BCold (Zone 6)

Climate Zone 6B - Cold, Dry

Short warm summers and long cold winters with low humidity. This climate zone encompasses parts of Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Colorado and includes major cities like Helena, Casper, Bozeman, Jackson.

Design Temperatures

Winter Design Temperatures

-15°F to 5°F

Used for heating load calculations and equipment sizing

Summer Design Temperatures

75°F to 85°F

Used for cooling load calculations and equipment sizing

Heating & Cooling Degree Days

Heating Degree Days (HDD)

6,500 - 9,000

Base 65°F. Higher numbers indicate more heating requirements and longer heating seasons.

Cooling Degree Days (CDD)

0 - 500

Base 65°F. Higher numbers indicate more cooling requirements and longer cooling seasons.

HVAC System Considerations

Key Considerations

  • Extreme heating loads
  • Minimal cooling needs
  • High altitude effects
  • Equipment derating required
  • Freeze protection critical

Common Equipment

  • High-efficiency gas furnaces
  • Boilers
  • Radiant heating
  • Wood/pellet supplemental heat

Energy Code Requirements

Equipment Efficiency

  • AFUE 90+ for furnaces
  • High-performance windows
  • Continuous insulation
  • Air sealing requirements

Insulation Requirements

Walls:R-20 to R-21
Ceiling:R-49 to R-60
Floor:R-25 to R-30

Major Cities in Zone 6B

States with Zone 6B Areas

Quick Reference

Zone:6B
Temperature:Cold
Moisture:Dry (B)
States:4
Cities:4

Calculate Load

Use our load calculators with the design temperatures and requirements specific to Zone 6B.